Providence announces IMPACT 2020 Campaign at Winnipeg Gala

Providence donors and supporters participated in the announcement of the public launch of the IMPACT 2020 campaign on Thursday, September 15 at The Metropolitan Entertainment Centre in Winnipeg.

Following a brief reception guests were welcomed to their tables in the Grand Hall by emcee Cameron McKenzie, Academic Dean of Providence University College. President Dr. David Johnson then presented his vision for Providence, remarking that the fundraising campaign would position the institution as a leading, Canadian, Christian university.

Shortly before the main course (grilled chicken supreme topped with sautéed, wild mushrooms in a port wine sauce) was served, Providence student Natasha Loge spoke about the uniqueness of a Christ-centred Business education.

Between speeches and through the various courses of the meal attendees were serenaded by pianist Darryl Friesen while slideshows depicting both the history of Providence and IMPACT 2020’s progress were presented on the venue’s 35 ft. by 26 ft. screen.

Following dinner Irma McKenzie, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations at Providence, discussed the IMPACT 2020 priorities (the Providence Fund, Campus Enhancements, Program Enhancements, Endowed Scholarships and Employee Development) and revealed that 70 per cent of the $12.5 million goal had already been realized in cash and pledges.

Herb and Erna Buller—after whom the new Providence-based Buller School of Business has been named—then delivered an address about the importance of leaving a legacy, and Don Streuber, IMPACT 2020 Campaign Chair, concluded the evening with a call-out to “make a difference together.”

Given the ornate setting of a well-appointed, hundred-year-old facility, a fine meal prepared by Chef Dan Ardies and his staff and the coming-together of so many friends of the school, the gala proved a fitting way to introduce, and to celebrate, such a transformative period in Providence history.